Textbooks and journal articles show a tidy version of science. Real research? Messy, iterative, and full of failure. In this episode of Un-Hidden Curriculum, we unpack what actually happens behind the scenes of a research study—from figuring out how to ask the right questions to designing flawed experiments, wrangling messy data, and navigating inevitable setbacks. You’ll learn why failure isn’t just normal but necessary, how science actually moves forward, and what no one tells you about timelines, funding, and the not-so-glamorous middle of doing science.

Starting your research journey can feel overwhelming. In this episode, Dr. Meghan Puglia pulls back the curtain on the “hidden curriculum” — the unspoken rules, essential skills, and mindset you need to succeed as a scientist. Learn the five key traits of successful researchers and get practical tips to navigate academia with confidence and clarity.